Ion emitting grooming brush

ABSTRACT

A brush includes a self-contained ion generator that subjects material being brushed to an outflow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone. The ion generator includes a high voltage pulse generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays. Preferably the first array comprises at least one metal pin spaced coaxially-apart from a metal ring-like structure. Alternatively, the first array may comprise one or more wire electrodes spaced staggeringly apart from a second array comprising hollow “U”-shaped electrodes. Preferably a ratio between effective area of an electrode in the second array compared to effective area of an electrode in the first array exceeds about 15:1 and preferably is about 20:1. An electric field produced by the high voltage pulses between the arrays produces an electrostatic flow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone. The outflow of ionized air and ozone is directed between the brush bristles onto the material being brushed.

RELATION TO PENDING APPLICATION

[0001] This is a continuing application from application Ser. No.09/163,024 filed Sep. 29, 1998 entitled “Ion Emitting Grooming Brush”,now U.S. Pat. No. ______ (1999), assigned to the assignee herein, andpriority is claimed to said pending application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates to grooming products and more specificallyto brushes that remove hair, lint, etc. from clothing and promotegrooming by emitting ionized air directed to the clothing being brushed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] However common experience indicates that removing lint, hair, andthe like from clothing by conventional brushing is not alwayssuccessful. For example, static electricity may tend to bind hairs,lint, and other small debris to the surface of clothing. Althoughbrushing one's clothing can mechanically remove some lint, hair, orother particles from the clothing surface, the brushing does not provideany conditioning of the clothing. Too often the lint and other materialon the clothing is simply mechanically repositioned.

[0004] It is known in the art to produce an air flow electro-kineticallyby directly converting electrical power into a flow of air withoutmechanically moving components. One such system is described in U.S.Pat. No. 4,789,801 to Lee (1988), depicted herein in simplified form asFIGS. 1A and 1B. Lee's system 10 provides a first array of small area(“minisectional”) electrodes 20 is space-apart symmetrically from asecond array of larger area (“maxisectional”) electrodes 30, with a highvoltage (e.g., 5 KV) pulse generator 40 coupled between the two arrays.Generator 40 outputs high voltage pulses that ionize the air between thearrays, producing an air flow 50 from the minisectional array toward themaxisectional array results. The high voltage field present between thetwo arrays can release ozone (O₃), which can advantageously safelydestroy many types of bacteria if excessive quantities of ozone are notreleased.

[0005] Unfortunately, Lee's tear-shaped maxisectional electrodes arerelatively expensive to fabricate, most likely requiring mold-casting orextrusion processes. Further, air flow and ion generation efficiency isnot especially high using Lee's configuration.

[0006] There is a need for a brush that can not only brush away lint,hair, etc. from clothing and other material, but provide a measure ofcleaning and/or conditioning as well. Preferably such brush shouldsubject the material being brushed to an ion flow to promote cleaningand grooming.

[0007] The present invention provides such a grooming brush.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0008] The present invention provides a brush whose body includes ahandle portion and a head portion defining at least one vent andincluding projecting bristles. More preferably, the head portionupperside will define at least one air intake vent and the headportion-underside defines at least one ionized air outlet vent.

[0009] Contained within the brush body is a battery-operated ionizerunit with DC battery power supply. The ionizer unit includes a DC:DCinverter that boosts the battery voltage to high voltage, and a pulsegenerator that receives the high voltage DC and outputs high voltagepulses of perhaps 10 KV peak-to-peak, although high voltage DC could beused instead of pulses. The unit also includes an electrode assemblyunit comprising first and second spaced-apart arrays of conductingelectrodes, the first array and second array being coupled,respectively, preferably to the positive and negative output ports ofthe high voltage pulse generator.

[0010] The electrode assembly preferably is formed using first andsecond arrays of readily manufacturable electrode types. In oneembodiment, the first array comprises wire-like electrodes and thesecond array comprises “U”-shaped electrodes having one or two trailingsurfaces. In an even more efficient embodiment, the first array includesat least one pin or cone-like electrode and the second array is anannular washer-like electrode. The electrode assembly may comprisevarious combinations of the described first and second array electrodes.In the various embodiments, the ratio between effective area of thesecond array electrodes to the first array electrodes is at least about20:1.

[0011] The high voltage pulses create an electric field between thefirst and second electrode arrays. This field produces anelectro-kinetic airflow going from the first array toward the secondarray, the airflow being rich in ions and in ozone (O₃). Ambient airenters the brush head via air intake vent(s), and ionized air (withozone) exits the brush through outlet vent(s) in the bristle portion ofthe head. However, in practice if only one vent is present, it sufficesas both an intake and an outlet vent. Preferably a visual indicator iscoupled to the ionizer unit to visually confirm to a user when the unitis ready for ionizing operation, and when ionization is actuallyoccurring.

[0012] Clothing or other material brushed with the bristles is subjectedto a gentle flow of ionized air from the outlet vent(s). The brushedmaterial soon takes on a more conditioned appearance, compared tomaterial groomed with an ordinary lint-type brush. The ozone emissionscan kill many types of germs and bacteria that may be present on theclothing and can deodorize the clothing surface.

[0013] Other features and advantages of the invention will appear fromthe following description in which the preferred embodiments have beenset forth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014]FIGS. 1A and 1B are depictions of Lee-type electrostaticgenerators, according to the prior art;

[0015]FIG. 2A is an perspective view of a preferred embodiment of anionizing brush, according to the present invention;

[0016]FIG. 2B is a bottom view of a preferred embodiment of an ionizingbrush, according to the present invention;

[0017]FIG. 3 is an electrical block diagram of the present invention;

[0018]FIG. 4A is a perspective block diagram showing a first embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0019]FIG. 4B is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4A;

[0020]FIG. 4C is a perspective block diagram showing a second embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0021]FIG. 4D is a plan block diagram of a modified version of theembodiment of FIG. 4C;

[0022]FIG. 4E is a perspective block diagram showing a third embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 4F is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4E;

[0024]FIG. 4G is a perspective block diagram showing a fourth embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 4H is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4G;

[0026]FIG. 4I is a perspective block diagram showing a fifth embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 4J is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of theembodiment of FIG. 4I;

[0028]FIG. 4K is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of analternative to the embodiment of FIG. 4I;

[0029]FIG. 5 is a cutaway perspective view of the present inventionshowing location of the electrode assembly, according to the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0030]FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an ionized brush 100 according to thepresent invention as having a body that includes a handle portion 110and a head portion 120. Head portion 120 includes one or more air intakevents 130, brush bristles 140 that protrude from a brush plate 145attached to the brushing surface of the brush, and one or more outletvents 150.

[0031] Brush 100 is similar to what was described in FIGS. 2A and 2B inthe parent application, except that for a brush to remove lint, hair,etc., bristles 140 will typically be shorter and may be biased at acommon angle and formed on a cloth substrate. However whether brushplate 145 includes long bristles or short bristles is unimportant tooperation of the present invention.

[0032] Internal to the brush body is an ion generating unit 160, poweredby a battery B1 (preferably at least 6 VDC) contained within the brushand energizable via a switch S1, preferably mounted on the brush 100. Assuch, ion generating unit 160 is self-contained in that other thanambient air, nothing is required from beyond the body of the brush foroperation of the present invention. Of course if desired, a DC powersupply could be disposed external to the brush body, and power broughtinto the hair brush via a cable.

[0033] Preferably handle portion 110 is detachable from head portion120, to provide access to battery B1, preferably five NiCd rechargeablecells or four disposable cells. The housing material is preferablyinexpensive, lightweight, and easy to fabricate, ABS plastic forexample. Brush 100 is preferably approximately the size of typicalbrushes, for example an overall length of perhaps 235 mm, and a maximumwidth of perhaps 58 mm, although other dimensions can of course be used.

[0034] Brush plate 145 may be removably attached to hair brush 100, forease of cleaning the bristles, for providing access to an ion-emittingelectrode assembly within the brush head, as well as for inserting adifferent brush plate bearing a different type of bristles. Differenttypes or shapes or configurations of bristles might be usedinterchangeably simply by inserting different brush plate-bristleassemblies into the head portion of the present invention.

[0035] It will also be appreciated that use of the present invention isnot limited to a single grooming function. Thus, whereas bristles 140might be fabricated from nylon or plastic for one grooming application,the bristles might instead be metal for use in another application.Thus, if desired, a brush plate 145 containing nylon bristles could bereplaced with a different brush plate containing metal bristles.

[0036] The ability to remove brush plate 145 also provides ready accessto electrodes within the brush head, for purposes of cleaning and, ifnecessary, replacement. It is to be understood that although FIGS. 2Aand 2B depict an exemplary embodiment for brush 100, otherconfigurations may be used. Different configurations of inlet vent(s)130 and/or outlet vent(s) 150 may be used. Thus, more or fewer suchvents may be provided, the locations location and/or shapes of which maydiffer from what is depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The purpose of vents130 and 150 is to ensure that an adequate flow of ambient air may bedrawn into or made available to unit 130, and that an adequate flow ofionized air that includes safe amounts of O₃ flows out from unit 130towards the grooming area.

[0037] As best seen in FIG. 3, ion generating unit 160 includes a highvoltage pulse generator unit 170 and optionally an indicator circuit180. Circuit 180 senses potential on battery B1 and indicates whetherbattery potential is sufficient to generate ions and when ion generationis occurring. In the preferred embodiment, a visual indicator is used,preferably a two-color light emitting diode (“LED”). Of course otherindicator devices may be used, including for example, blinkingindicator(s), and/or audible indicator(s). Optionally, circuit 180includes timing components that will turn-off generation of ions andozone after a predetermined time, for example two minutes. Such aturn-off feature will preserve battery lifetime in the event S1 is otherthan a push-to-maintain contact type switch. Thus, a user who pushes S1and uses the brush but forgets to turn-off S1 will not necessarilydeplete battery B1, as circuitry 180 will turn-off the present inventionfor the user.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3, high voltage pulse generator unit 170preferably comprises a low voltage oscillator circuit 190 of perhaps 20KHz frequency, that outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch200, e.g., a thyristor or the like. Switch 200 switchably couples thelow voltage pulses to the input winding of a step-up transformer T1. Thesecondary winding of T1 is coupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit210 that outputs high voltage pulses. Preferably the circuitry andcomponents comprising high voltage pulse generator 170 andsense/indicator circuit (and timing circuit) 180 are fabricated on aprinted circuit board that is mounted within head portion 120 of hairbrush 100.

[0039] Output pulses from high voltage generator 170 preferably are atleast 10 KV peak-to-peak with an effective DC offset of perhaps half thepeak-to-peak voltage, and have a frequency of perhaps 20 KHz. The pulsetrain output preferably has a duty cycle of perhaps 10%, which willpromote battery lifetime. Of course, different peak-peak amplitudes, DCoffsets, pulse train waveshapes, duty cycle and/or repetitionfrequencies may instead be used. Indeed, a 100% pulse train (e.g., anessentially DC high voltage) may be used, albeit with shorter batterylifetime.

[0040] Frequency of oscillation is not especially critical but frequencyof at least about 20 KHz is preferred as being inaudible to humans.However if brush 100 is intended for use in the immediate vicinity ofpets, even higher operating frequency may be desired such that thepresent invention does not emit audible sounds that would disturb nearbyanimals.

[0041] The output from high voltage pulse generator unit 170 is coupledto an electrode assembly 220 that comprises a first electrode array 230and a second electrode array 240. Unit 170 functions as a DC:DC highvoltage generator, and could be implemented using other circuitry and/ortechniques to output high voltage pulses that are input to electrodeassembly 220.

[0042] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the positive output terminal of unit170 is coupled to first electrode array 230, and the negative outputterminal is coupled to second electrode array 240. This couplingpolarity has been found to work well. An electrostatic flow of air iscreated, going from the first electrode array towards the secondelectrode array. (This flow is denoted “OUT” in the figures.)Accordingly electrode assembly 220 is mounted in the head portion 120 ofbrush 100 such that second electrode array 240 is closer to the brushingsurface (e.g., bristle-containing region where outlet vent(s) 150 arelocated) than is first electrode array 230.

[0043] When voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator 170 arecoupled across first and second electrode arrays 230 and 240, it isbelieved that a plasma-like field is created surrounding electrodes 232in first array 230. This electric field ionizes the air between thefirst and second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflow thatmoves towards the second array. It is understood that the IN flow entersbrush 100 via vent(s) 130, and that the OUT flow exits brush 100 viavent(s) 150.

[0044] It is believed that ozone and ions are generated simultaneouslyby the first array electrode(s) 232, essentially as a function of thepotential from generator 170 coupled to the first array. Ozonegeneration may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing thepotential at the first array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential tothe second array electrode(s) 242 essentially accelerates the motion ofions generated at the first array, producing the air flow denoted as“OUT” in the figures. As the ions move toward the second array, it isbelieved that they push or move air molecules toward the second array.The relative velocity of this motion may be increased by decreasing thepotential at the second array relative to the potential at the firstarray.

[0045] For example, if +10 KV were applied to the first arrayelectrode(s), and no potential were applied to the second arrayelectrode(s), a cloud of ions (whose net charge is positive) would formadjacent the first electrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KVpotential would generate substantial ozone. By coupling a relativelynegative potential to the second array electrode(s), the velocity of theair mass moved by the net emitted ions increases, as momentum of themoving ions is conserved.

[0046] On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the sameeffective outflow (OUT) velocity but to generate less ozone, theexemplary 10 KV potential could be divided between the electrode arrays.For example, generator 170 could provide +6 KV (or some other fraction)to the first array electrode(s) and −4 KV (or some other fraction) tothe second array electrode(s). In this example, it is understood thatthe +6 KV and the −4 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandableit is desired that the present invention operate to output safe amountsof ozone.

[0047] As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes safe amounts of O₃that can destroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, andother living (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Thus,when switch S1 is closed and B1 has sufficient operating potential,pulses from high voltage pulse generator unit 170 create an outflow(OUT) of ionized air and O₃. When S1 is closed, LED will first visuallysignal whether sufficient B1 potential is present, and if present, thensignal when ionization is occurring. If LED fails to indicate sufficientoperating voltage, the user will know to replace B1 or, if rechargeablecells are used, to recharge B1. For example, if visual indicator is atwo-color device, the LED could signal red when B1 potential exceeds aminimum threshold, e.g., 5.5 VDC. Further, LED could then signal greenwhen S1 is depressed and unit 160 is actually outputting ionized air. Ifthe battery potential is too low, the LED will not light, which advisesthe user to replace or re-charge battery source B1.

[0048] Preferably operating parameters of the present invention are setduring manufacture and are not user-adjustable. For example, increasingthe peak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltagepulses generated by unit 170 can increase air flowrate, ion content, andozone content. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is about 90feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozone content isabout 50 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (over ambient).Decreasing the R2/R1 ratio below about 20:1 will decrease flow rate, aswill decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycle of the highvoltage pulses coupled between the first and second electrode arrays.

[0049] In practice, a user holds and uses brush 100 in conventionalfashion to brush clothing or other material. With S1 energized,ionization unit 160 emits ionized air and preferably some ozone (O₃) viaoutlet vents 150. The material being groomed advantageously is subjectedto this outflow (“OUT”) of air and ozone. Beneficially, the brushedmaterial seems to align together more coherently than when using anon-ionized brush.

[0050] Odors in the material being brushed will diminish, and some typesof germs or bacteria, if present, can be killed by the outflow frombrush 100. In short, not only is the material brushed and groomed moreeffectively than with a passive prior art brush, e.g., a brush that doesnot actively emit ions, but hygiene is promoted as well.

[0051] Having described various aspects of the invention in general,preferred embodiments of electrode assembly 220 will now be described.In the various embodiments, electrode assembly 220 will comprise a firstarray 230 of at least one electrode 232, and will further comprise asecond array 240 of preferably at least one electrode 242.Understandably material(s) for electrodes 232 and 242 should conductelectricity, be resilient to corrosive effects from the application ofhigh voltage, yet be strong enough to be cleaned.

[0052] In the various electrode assemblies to be described herein,electrode(s) 232 in the first electrode array 230 are preferablyfabricated from tungsten. Tungsten is sufficiently robust to withstandcleaning, has a high melting point to retard breakdown due toionization, and has a rough exterior surface that seems to promoteefficient ionization. On the other hand, electrodes 242 preferably willhave a highly polished exterior surface to minimize unwantedpoint-to-point radiation. As such, electrodes 242 preferably arefabricated from stainless steel, brass, among other materials. Thepolished surface of electrodes 232 also promotes ease of electrodecleaning.

[0053] In contrast to the prior art electrodes disclosed by Lee,electrodes 232 and 242 according to the present invention are lightweight, easy to fabricate, and lend themselves to mass production.Further, electrodes 232 and 242 described herein promote more efficientgeneration of ionized air, and production of safe amounts of ozone, O₃.

[0054] In the present invention, a high voltage pulse generator 170 iscoupled between the first electrode array 230 and the second electrodearray 240. The high voltage pulses produce a flow of ionized air thattravels in the direction from the first array towards the second array(indicated herein by hollow arrows denoted “OUT”). As such, electrode(s)232 may be referred to as an emitting electrode, and electrodes 242 maybe referred to as collector electrodes. This outflow advantageouslycontains safe amounts of O₃, and exits the present invention fromvent(s) 150, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Although a generator of highvoltage pulses is preferred and will promote battery life, in practicehigh voltage DC (e.g., pulses having 100% duty cycle) may instead beused.

[0055] According to the present invention, it is preferred that: thepositive output terminal or port of the high voltage pulse generator becoupled to electrodes 232, and that the negative output terminal or portbe coupled to electrodes 242. It is believed that the net polarity ofthe emitted ions is positive, e.g., more positive ions than negativeions are emitted. In any event, the preferred electrode assemblyelectrical coupling minimizes audible hum from electrodes 232 contrastedwith reverse polarity (e.g., interchanging the positive and negativeoutput port connections). Further, the preferred electrical couplingseems to produce ions that help keep hair in place, as opposed toputting a static charge into the hair that can produce an undesired“fly-away” hair appearance. In some embodiments, however, one port(preferably the negative port) of high voltage pulse generator may infact be the ambient air. Thus, electrodes in the second array need notbe connected to the high voltage pulse generator using wire.Nonetheless, there will be an “effective connection” between the secondarray electrodes and one output port of the high voltage pulsegenerator, in this instance, via ambient air.

[0056] Turning now to the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrodeassembly 220 comprises a first array 230 of wire electrodes 232, and asecond array 240 of generally “U”-shaped electrodes 242. In preferredembodiments, the number N1 of electrodes comprising the first array willdiffer by one relative to the number N2 of electrodes comprising thesecond array. In many of the embodiments shown, N2>N1. However, ifdesired, in FIG. 4A, addition first electrodes 232 could be added at theout ends of array 230 such that N1>N2, e.g., five electrodes 232compared to four electrodes 242.

[0057] Electrodes 232 are preferably lengths of tungsten wire, whereaselectrodes 242 are formed from sheet metal, preferably stainless steel,although brass or other sheet metal could be used. The sheet metal isreadily formed to define side regions 244 and bulbous nose region 246for hollow elongated “U” shaped electrodes 242. While FIG. 4A depictsfour electrodes 242 in second array 240 and three electrodes 232 infirst array 230, as noted, other numbers of electrodes in each arraycould be used, preferably retaining a symmetrically staggeredconfiguration as shown.

[0058] As best seen in FIG. 4B, the spaced-apart configuration betweenthe arrays is staggered such that each first array electrode 232 issubstantially equidistant from two second array electrodes 242. Thissymmetrical staggering has been found to be an especially efficientelectrode placement. Preferably the staggering geometry is symmetricalin that adjacent electrodes 232 or adjacent electrodes 242 arespaced-apart a constant distance, Y1 and Y2 respectively. However, anon-symmetrical configuration could also be used, although ion emissionand air flow would likely be diminished. Also, it is understood that thenumber of electrodes 232 and 242 may differ from what is shown.

[0059] In FIG. 4A, typically dimensions are as follows: diameter ofelectrodes 232 is about 0.08 mm, distances Y1 and Y2 are each about 16mm, distance X1 is about 16 mm, distance L is about 20 mm, and electrodeheights Z1 and Z2 are each about 100 mm. The width W of electrodes 242is preferably about 4 mm, and the thickness of the material from whichelectrodes 242 are formed is about 0.5 mm. Of course other dimensionsand shapes could be used. It is preferred that electrodes 232 be smallin diameter to help establish a desired high voltage field. On the otherhand, it is desired that electrodes 232 (as well as electrodes 242) besufficiently robust to withstand occasional cleaning.

[0060] Electrodes 232 in first array 230 are coupled by a conductor 234to a first (preferably positive) output port of high voltage pulsegenerator 170, and electrodes 242 in second array 240 are coupled by aconductor 244 to a second (preferably negative) output port of generator170. It is relatively unimportant where on the various electrodeselectrical connection is made to conductors 234 or 244. Thus, by way ofexample FIG. 4B depicts conductor 244 making connection with someelectrodes 242 internal to bulbous end 246, while other electrodes 242make electrical connection to conductor 244 elsewhere on the electrode.Electrical connection to the various electrodes 242 could also be madeon the electrode external surface providing no substantial impairment ofthe outflow airstream results.

[0061] The ratio of the effective electric field emanating area ofelectrode 232 to the nearest effective area of electrodes 242 is atleast about 15:1, and preferably is at least 20:1. Beyond a ratio of say35:1, little or no performance improvement results. Thus, in theembodiment of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the ratio R2/R1≈2 mm/0.08 mm≈25:1.

[0062] In this and the other embodiments to be described herein,ionization appears to occur at the smaller electrode(s) 232 in the firstelectrode array 230, with ozone production occurring as a function ofhigh voltage arcing. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak voltageamplitude and/or duty cycle of the pulses from the high voltage pulsegenerator 170 can increase ozone content in the output flow of ionizedair.

[0063] In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4C, each “U”-shaped electrode242 has two trailing edges 244 that promote efficient kinetic transportof the outflow of ionized air and O₃. By contrast, the embodiments ofFIGS. 4C and 4D depict somewhat truncated versions of electrodes 242.Whereas dimension L in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B was about 20mm, in FIGS. 4C and 4D, L has been shortened to about 8 mm. Otherdimensions in FIG. 4C preferably are similar to those stated for FIGS.4A and 4B. In FIGS. 4C and 4D, the inclusion of point-like regions 246on the trailing edge of electrodes 242 seems to promote more efficientgeneration of ionized air flow. It will be appreciated that theconfiguration of second electrode array 240 in FIG. 4C can be morerobust than the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B, by virtue of theshorter trailing edge geometry. As noted earlier, a symmetricalstaggered geometry for the first and second electrode arrays ispreferred for the configuration of FIG. 4C.

[0064] In the embodiment of FIG. 4D, the outermost second electrodes,denoted 242-1 and 242-2, have substantially no outermost trailing edges.Dimension L in FIG. 4D is preferably about 3 mm, and other dimensionsmay be as stated for the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Again, theR2/R1 ratio for the embodiment of FIG. 4D preferably exceeds about 20:1.

[0065]FIGS. 4E and 4F depict another embodiment of electrode assembly220, in which the first electrode array comprises a single wireelectrode 232, and the second electrode array comprises a single pair ofcurved “L”-shaped electrodes 242, in cross-section. Typical dimensions,where different than what has been stated for earlier-describedembodiments, are X1≈12 mm, Y1≈6 mm, Y2≈3 mm, and L1≈3 mm. The effectiveR2/R1 ratio is again greater than about 20:1. The fewer electrodescomprising assembly 220 in FIGS. 4E and 4F promote economy ofconstruction, and ease of cleaning, although more than one electrode232, and more than two electrodes 242 could of course be employed. Thisembodiment again incorporates the staggered symmetry described earlier,in which electrode 232 is equidistant from two electrodes 242.

[0066]FIGS. 4G and 4H shown yet another embodiment for electrodeassembly 220. In this embodiment, first electrode array 230 is a lengthof wire 232, while the second electrode array 240 comprises a pair ofrod or columnar electrodes 242. As in embodiments described earlierherein, it is preferred that electrode 232 be symmetrically equidistantfrom electrodes 242. Wire electrode 232 is preferably perhaps 0.08 mmtungsten, whereas columnar electrodes 242 are perhaps 2 mm diameterstainless steel. Thus, in this embodiment the R2/R1 ratio is about 25:1.Other dimensions may be similar to other configurations, e.g., FIGS. 4E,4F. Of course electrode assembly 220 may comprise more than oneelectrode 232, and more than two electrodes 242.

[0067] An especially preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 4I and FIG.4J. In these figures, the first electrode assembly comprises a singlepin-like element 232 disposed coaxially with a second electrode arraythat comprises a single ring-like electrode 242 having a rounded inneropening 246. However, as indicated by phantom elements 232′, 242′,electrode assembly 220 may comprise a plurality of such pin-like andring-like elements. Preferably electrode 232 is tungsten, and electrode242 is stainless steel.

[0068] Typical dimensions for the embodiment of FIG. 4I and FIG. 4J areL1≈10 mm, X1≈9.5 mm, T≈0.5 mm, and the diameter of opening 246 is about12 mm. Dimension L1 preferably is sufficiently long that upstreamportions of electrode 232 (e.g., portions to the left in FIG. 4I) do notinterfere with the electrical field between electrode 232 and thecollector electrode 242. However, as shown in FIG. 4J, the effect R2/R1ratio is governed by the tip geometry of electrode 232. Again, in thepreferred embodiment, this ratio exceeds about 20:1. Lines drawn inphantom in FIG. 4J depict theoretical electric force field lines,emanating from emitter electrode 232, and terminating on the curvedsurface of collector electrode 246. Preferably the bulk of the fieldemanates within about +45° of coaxial axis between electrode 232 andelectrode 242. On the other hand, if the opening in electrode 242 and/orelectrode 232 and 242 geometry is such that too narrow an angle aboutthe coaxial axis exists, air flow will be unduly restricted.

[0069] One advantage of the ring-pin electrode assembly configurationshown in FIG. 4I is that the flat regions of ring-like electrode 242provide sufficient surface area to which dust entrained in the movingair stream can attach, yet be readily cleaned. As a result, the airstream (OUT) emitted by the hair brush has reduced dust content,especially contrasted to prior art kinetic air mover configurations.

[0070] Further, the ring-pin configuration advantageously generates moreozone than prior art configurations, or the configurations of FIGS.4A-4H. For example, whereas the configurations of FIGS. 4A-4H maygenerate perhaps 50 ppb ozone, the configuration of FIG. 4I can generateabout 2,000 ppb ozone, without an increase in demand upon power supplyB1.

[0071] Nonetheless it will be appreciated that applicants' first arraypin electrodes may be utilized with the second array electrodes of FIGS.4A-4H. Further, applicants' second array ring electrodes may be utilizedwith the first array electrodes of FIGS. 4A-4H. For example, inmodifications of the embodiments of FIGS. 4A-4H, each wire or columnarelectrode 232 is replaced by a column of electrically series-connectedpin electrodes (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4I-4K), while retaining thesecond electrode arrays as depicted in these figures. By the same token,in other modifications of the embodiments of FIGS. 4A-4H, the firstarray electrodes can remain as depicted, but each of the second arrayelectrodes 242 is replaced by a column of electrically series-connectedring electrodes (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4I-4K).

[0072] In FIG. 4J, a detailed cross-sectional view of the centralportion of electrode 242 in FIG. 4I is shown. As best seen in FIG. 4J,curved region 246 adjacent the central opening in electrode 242 appearsto provide an acceptably large surface area to which many ionizationpaths from the distal tip of electrode 232 have substantially equal pathlength. Thus, while the distal tip (or emitting tip) of electrode 232 isadvantageously small to concentrate the electric field between theelectrode arrays, the adjacent regions of electrode 242 preferablyprovide many equidistant inter-electrode array paths. A high exitflowrate of perhaps 90 feet/minute and 2,000 ppb range ozone emissionattainable with this configuration confirm a high operating efficiency.

[0073] In FIG. 4K, one or more electrodes 232 is replaced by aconductive block 232″ of carbon fibers, the block having a distalsurface in which projecting fibers 233-1, . . . 233-N take on theappearance of a “bed of nails”. The projecting fibers can each act as anemitting electrode and provide a plurality of emitting surfaces. Over aperiod of time, some or all of the electrodes will literally beconsumed, whereupon graphite block 232″ will be replaced. Materialsother than graphite may be used for block 232″ providing the materialhas a surface with projecting conductive fibers such as 233-N.

[0074]FIG. 5 depicts the location of a typical electrode assembly 220within the head portion of brush 100, such that second electrode array240 is closer to the brushing surface of the brush than is firstelectrode array 230. While FIG. 5 depicts an electrode assembly 220using the ring-pin configuration of FIG. 4I, it is understood that anyof the alternative configurations of FIGS. 4A-4G could instead becontained within brush 100. FIG. 5 also depicts the optionally removablenature of bristle block 145, and a different configuration of exit vents150. FIG. 5 herein differs from FIG. 5 in the parent application only inthe depiction of relatively shorter bristles herein.

[0075] Preferably the inner portion of the head region of brush 100includes an electrostatic shield that reduces detectable electromagneticradiation outside of the brush. For example, a metal shield could bedisposed within the housing, or portions of the interior of the housingcould be coated with a metallic paint to reduce such radiation.

[0076] It will also be appreciated that the net output of ions could beinfluenced by placing a bias element near some or all of the outputvents. For example, such an element could be electrically biased toneutralize negative ions, thereby increasing the net output of positiveions. It will also be appreciated that the present invention could beadjusted to produce ions without producing ozone, if desired.

[0077] Modifications and variations may be made to the disclosedembodiments without departing from the subject and spirit of theinvention as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A self-contained ion emitting brush, comprising:a handholdable body having a region to which a grooming attachment maybe removably affixed; a self-contained ion generator disposed in saidbody and including: a high voltage generator having first and secondoutput ports, one of which ports may be at a same potential as ambientair, that outputs a signal whose duty cycle can be about 10% to about100%; and an electrode assembly, effectively coupled between said outputports, comprising a first electrode array that includes at least oneelectrode having a pointed tip aimed generally in a downstreamdirection, and a second electrode array that includes at least oneelectrically conductive member through which there is defined at leastone substantially circular opening disposed generally coaxial with andin a downstream direction from said pointed tip of said first electrode;wherein said ion generator outputs an electrostatic flow in a downstreamdirection toward said second electrode array, said electrostatic flowincluding at least one of ionized air and ozone.
 2. The brush of claim1, wherein: said second electrode array is a loop of conductivematerial.
 3. The brush of claim 1, wherein: said first electrode arrayincludes at least two electrodes that each have a pointed tip aimedgenerally toward said opening; and said second electrode array is asingle ring of conductive material encircling said opening.
 4. The brushof claim 1, wherein: said first electrode array includes at least twoelectrodes that each have a pointed tip; and said second electrode arrayincludes at least two electrically conductive members that each define asubstantially circular opening disposed generally coaxial with and in adownstream direction from a pointed tip of an electrode in said firstelectrode array.
 5. The brush of claim 1, wherein: said first electrodearray includes at least one electrode made from a material having adistal end that defines a plurality of projecting conductive fibers. 6.The brush of claim 1, wherein an edge of said electrically conductivemember surrounding said opening is rounded on a member surface facingsaid first electrode array.
 7. The brush of claim 1, wherein said highvoltage generator provides a first potential measurable relative toground to said first electrode array and provides a second potentialmeasurable relative to ground to said second electrode array.
 8. Thebrush of claim 7, wherein at least one of said first potential and saidsecond potential has an absolute magnitude of at least about 1 kV. 9.The brush of claim 1, further including said grooming attachment,wherein said grooming attachment includes bristles.
 10. The brush ofclaim 1, wherein said second electrode array has at least onecharacteristic selected from a group consisting of (i) said memberdefines in cross-section a tapered region terminating towards saidcircular opening, (ii) said member defines in cross-section a roundedregion terminating towards said circular opening, (c) said memberdefines in cross-section a rounded profile terminating in said circularopening, (d) a ratio of effective radius of a first electrodearray-facing edge of said member surrounding said opening to effectiveradius of said pointed tip exceeds about 15:1, (e) said member includesstainless steel.
 11. The brush of claim 1, wherein said electrode insaid first electrode array has at least one characteristic selected froma group consisting of (a) said electrode includes tungsten, (b) saidelectrode includes stainless steel, and (c) said electrode includesprojecting fibers of carbon.
 12. A method of providing a self-containedion emitting brush, comprising the following steps: (a) providing ahandholdable body having a region, defining at least one vent, to whichregion a grooming attachment may be affixed; (b) disposing within saidbody an electrode assembly comprising a first electrode array thatincludes at least one electrode having a pointed tip aimed generally ina downstream direction, and a second electrode array that includes atleast one electrically conductive member through which there is definedat least one substantially circular opening disposed generally coaxialwith and in a downstream direction from said pointed tip of said firstelectrode; and (c) within said body, generating high voltage with a dutycycle that can be about 10% to about 100% and coupling said high voltageacross said first electrode array and said second electrode array;wherein an electrostatic flow in a downstream direction toward saidsecond electrode array is created, said electrostatic flow including atleast one of ionized air and ozone.
 13. The method of claim 12, whereinstep (b) includes providing said second electrode array as a loop ofconductive material.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein step (b)includes providing said first electrode array with at least twoelectrodes that each have a pointed tip aimed generally toward saidopening; and providing said second electrode array as a single ring ofconductive material encircling said opening.
 15. The method of claim 12,wherein step (b) includes: providing said first electrode array with atleast first and second electrodes that each have a pointed tip; andproviding said second electrode array with at least first and secondelectrically conductive members that each define a substantiallycircular opening, and disposing said first and second electricallyconductive members generally coaxial with and in a downstream directionfrom, respectively, said pointed tip said first and second electrodes insaid first electrode array.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein step (b)includes: providing said first electrode array with at least oneelectrode made from a material having a distal end that includes aplurality of projecting conductive fibers.
 17. The method of claim 12,wherein step (b) includes rounding an edge of said electricallyconductive member surrounding said opening on a member surface facingsaid first electrode array.
 18. The method of claim 12, wherein step (c)includes generating and coupling said high voltage to provide a firstpotential measurable relative to ground to said first electrode arrayand to provide a second potential measurable relative to ground to saidsecond electrode array.
 19. The method of claim 12, wherein at least oneof said first potential and said second potential has an absolutemagnitude of at least about 1 kV.
 20. A self-contained ion emittingbrush, comprising: a handholdable body having a region to which agrooming attachment may be affixed; a self-contained ion generatordisposed in said body and including: a high voltage generator havingfirst and second output ports, one of which ports may be at a samepotential as ambient air, that outputs a signal whose duty cycle can beabout 10% to about 100%; and an electrode assembly, effectively coupledbetween said output ports, comprising a first electrode array thatincludes at least one wire electrode, and a second electrode array thatincludes at least two electrically conductive members that are disposedparallel to said wire electrode and are equidistant therefrom; whereinsaid ion generator outputs an electrostatic flow in a downstreamdirection toward said second electrode array, said electrostatic flowincluding at least one of ionized air and ozone.
 21. The brush of claim20, wherein said electrically conductive members in said secondelectrode array include at least two electrically conductive electrodesthat in cross-section define a “U”-shape having a bulbous nose regionand first and second trailing edge regions and are disposed with saidbulbous nose regions facing said wire electrode and being equidistanttherefrom.
 22. The brush of claim 21, wherein an electrode in saidsecond electrode array has at least one characteristic selected from agroup consisting of (a) a portion of one trailing edge region is longerthan a remaining trailing edge region on said electrode, (b) saidtrailing edge region defines at least one pointed projection facingdownstream, and (c) a ratio of effective radius of an electrode in saidsecond electrode array to effective radius of said wire electrodeexceeds about 15:1.
 23. The brush of claim 20, wherein: said secondelectrode array includes at least two electrically conductive electrodesthat in cross-section define an “L”-shape having a curved nose region;the “L”-shaped electrodes being disposed such that said curved noseregions face said wire electrode and are equidistant therefrom.
 24. Thebrush of claim 20, wherein a portion of electrodes in said second arrayinclude at least one pointed projection facing downstream.
 25. The brushof claim 20, wherein: said second electrode array includes at least tworod-like electrically conductive electrodes disposed parallel to saidwire electrode and equidistant therefrom.
 26. The brush of claim 25,wherein a ratio of radius of one of said rod-like electrodes to radiusof said wire electrode exceeds about 15:1.
 27. A method of providing aself-contained ion emitting brush, comprising the following steps: (a)providing a handholdable body having a region, defining at least onevent, to which a grooming attachment may be affixed; (b) disposingwithin said body an electrode assembly comprising a first electrodearray including a wire electrode, and a second electrode array includingat least two electrically conductive members disposed parallel to saidwire electrode and equidistant therefrom; and (c) within said body,generating high voltage with a duty cycle that can be about 10% to about100% and coupling said high voltage across said first electrode arrayand said second electrode array; wherein an electrostatic flow iscreated that flows downstream toward said second electrode array, saidelectrostatic flow including at least one of ionized air and ozone. 28.The method of claim 27, wherein step (b) includes providing saidelectrically conductive members in said second electrode array with atleast two electrically conductive electrodes that in cross-sectiondefine a “U”-shape having a bulbous nose region and first and secondtrailing edge regions and are disposed with said bulbous nose regionsfacing said wire electrode and being equidistant therefrom.
 29. Themethod of claim 27, wherein step (b) includes providing said secondelectrode array with at least two electrically conductive electrodesthat in cross-section define an “L”-shape having a curved nose regionand are disposed such that said curved nose regions face said wireelectrode and are equidistant therefrom.
 30. The method of claim 27,wherein step (b) includes providing said second electrode array with atleast two rod-like electrically conductive electrodes disposed parallelto said wire electrode and equidistant therefrom.
 31. The method ofclaim 27, wherein an edge portion of said electrically conductivemembers in said second electrode array include at least one pointedprojection facing downstream.